Domestic Violence in Michigan Family Court

Custody and Parenting Time Decisions

Court decisions about custody and parenting time focus on the child's best interests, prioritizing safety, stability, and the nurturing capacity of each parent. These decisions balance the need to maintain meaningful relationships with both parents while ensuring the child is protected from harm.

Raising Domestic Violence Concerns

When domestic violence is present, it is essential to raise these concerns clearly and promptly during custody proceedings. Courts consider documented evidence and expert assessments to understand the impact on the child's welfare and any potential risk.

Child Safety and Best-Interest Themes

The child's physical and emotional safety is paramount. Courts evaluate factors such as exposure to violence, psychological health, stability of the caregiving environment, and ability of the parent to meet the child’s needs when determining the best interests of the child.

Common Evidence Reviewed

Evidence often includes police reports, medical and counseling records, witness statements, child protective services documentation, and expert evaluations. This evidence guides the court in assessing risk and parenting capacity.

Supervision Possibilities

When concerns about safety exist, courts may order supervised visitation to protect the child during parent contact. Supervision can be conducted by court-appointed professionals or trusted third parties and is tailored to ensure the child’s security while preserving parental bonds.

For additional guidance and support navigating these complex issues, visit dv.support.